Lawyer Regulation

Overview of the State Bar’s attorney discipline system

Attorney complaint hotline 800-843-9053

Protecting California's consumers is one of the primary missions of the State Bar of California. This mission is principally carried out through the bar's attorney discipline system. The bar takes complaints against attorneys from the public and other sources, investigates those complaints and prosecutes lawyers against whom allegations of unethical conduct appear to be justified.

What consumers should know

If you feel that you have grounds for a complaint, call 800-843-9053 to request a form. Here is some information that will help you file a complaint, including how to get copies of attorney discipline records and getting reimbursed if you have lost money to an attorney who has been disciplined.

Attorneys are required to report incidents that may affect their license to practice to the State Bar, including judicial sanctions, criminal charges, fraud judgments, multiple insurance claims, a reversal of judgment based on their conduct and discipline imposed in another state or jurisdiction. Members must also report whether they have employed a suspended or former member of the State Bar. In addition, prosecutors must report when they are filing criminal charges against an attorney. To report these activities, please use the forms listed below: